Genius of Duke 74xxxx 01 Stepping Into Swing Society

Summary

Genius of Duke 74xxxx 01: Stepping Into Swing Society

Release Date: March 21, 2025
Host: Hal Jackson
Guest: Mercer Ellington

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Introduction to Duke Ellington's Legacy

In this engaging episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, host Hal Jackson pays homage to one of America's musical titans, Duke Ellington. Joining him is Mercer Ellington, Duke's son and a renowned composer and bandleader. Together, they delve into Duke Ellington's profound influence on jazz and popular music, showcasing timeless pieces that have shaped the Golden Age of Radio.

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"Stepping Into Swing Society" – A Musical Milestone

Mercer Ellington opens the discussion with a deep dive into the piece "Stepping Into Swing Society." Written in 1938, this composition marked a significant moment in pop music's evolution. Mercer reflects on its impact, stating:

"Stepping Into Swing Society was written in 1938 and I think it was one of the first tunes that made me musically aware of pop's genius."
[01:04]

He elaborates on the 1958 rendition of the track, arranged by Luther Henderson, highlighting its fresh interpretation while maintaining the original's essence. Mercer also acknowledges the exceptional talent within the orchestra, mentioning notable musicians such as Billy Strayhorn on piano, and saxophonists Johnny Hodges and Ben Webster, who delivered stellar solos.

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Sidney Bechet's Influence and the New Orleans Suite

The episode further explores the rich tapestry of Ellington's inspirations. Mercer pays tribute to Sidney Bechet, an early jazz luminary who left an indelible mark on Ellington's work. He recounts his first encounter with Bechet's music:

"Sidney Bechet was one of pop's early influences and inspirations. I heard him the first time in the Howard Theatre in Washington D.C. around 1921."
[05:03]

Mercer discusses the dedication of a piece within the New Orleans Suite intended for Johnny Hodges. Tragically, Hodges passed away just before the recording session, leading to the talented Paul Gonzalez Sa stepping in to honor both Johnny's legacy and Bechet's influence.

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Baker's Holiday and the Showcase of Ray Nance

Shifting focus to Duke Ellington's expansive body of work, Mercer delves into the creation of the score for Baker's Holiday in 1947. Duke's prolific output for the show resulted in 78 songs, with only half making it to the final production. Mercer highlights one standout number:

"Maybe I Should Change My Ways was one of the big numbers. And this instrumental version is virtually a showcase for Ray Nance's violin."
[09:58]

This piece not only underscores Duke's versatility as a composer but also spotlights Ray Nance's exceptional violin skills, adding depth and emotion to the performance.

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Conclusion

As the episode winds down, Mercer Ellington offers heartfelt farewells, emphasizing the enduring happiness and well-being inspired by Duke Ellington's music. Hal Jackson wraps up the tribute, ensuring listeners leave with a deeper appreciation of Duke Ellington's genius and his monumental contributions to American music.

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This episode serves as a rich exploration of Duke Ellington's musical genius, offering listeners both historical context and personal anecdotes from his son, Mercer Ellington. Through detailed discussions and captivating performances, the episode celebrates Ellington's timeless legacy in the annals of American music.

Transcript

[Mercer Ellington]

Hi everybody, this is Mercer Ellington. Welcome to our show.

[Hal Jackson]

The genius of Duke, Hal Jackson here speaking to you on behalf of the Social Security administration and this station, we're extremely proud to present this tribute to one of the giants of American music, Mr. Duke Ellington. With us today is Mercer Ellington, the Duke's son and a well known composing band leader in his own right, talking about and playing some of the Duke's all time great hits. And in just a few minutes I'll have something to say to you kids who are thinking about your first job. I bet a lot of you are kind of surprised to hear me talking to young people about Social Security. You know, a lot of people have a notion that Social Security is strictly for older people. Well, that's just not so and I'll be laying it on you in just a little bit. And now to our host for today's show, Duke Ellington's son, Mercer.

[Mercer Ellington]

Stepping Into Swing Society was written in 1938 and I think it was one of the first tunes that made me musically aware of pop's genius. The version you're going to hear was recorded 20 years later in a new arrangement by Luther Henderson. Although under my leadership, most of the musicians are from pop's orchestra. And Billy Strayhorn was on the piano. Johnny Hodges and Ben Webster are the sax soloist.

[Hal Jackson]

The great Duke Ellington said, Stepping Into Swing Society played by our host Marissa Ellington and his orchestra. Now then, I've got a word from Social Security for all of you who are thinking about going to work for the first time. Every year there's a whole new crop of young people going out into the job market. Be sure you're well prepared. And being prepared means making certain you have a Social Security card. With more than 90% of jobs today covered by Social Security, you need a Social Security card to show to your new boss. He needs your Social Security number so that you can get proper credit for your earnings and start building up your Social Security protection. Then if you become disabled or retire, you and your family can get monthly payments or survivor's benefits for your family. If you die. It takes several weeks to get a Social Security card, so don't wait until the last minute. Apply now at any Social Security office. Then you'll be all set for your first job and good luck. Mercer. I sense a good tune on its way up.

[Mercer Ellington]

Sidney Bashet was one of pop's early influences and inspirations. He heard him the first time in the Howard theater in Washington D.C. around 1921. The number he dedicated to him in the New Orleans Suite was to have been featured and played by Johnny Hodges, who had learned so much from Bashe. But Johnny died the day before the recording session. So the Saxonist you hear now is the late great Paul Gonzalez Sa.

[Hal Jackson]

The one, the only, Duke Ellington and his band. And a portrait of Sidney Bechet from the New Orleans Suite. Like I was saying to you kids that are out there looking for your first job, you should always remember that the first thing your new boss is going to ask you for is your Social Security card. So have it handy. And remember, that little piece of cardboard will help protect both you and your family during your whole lifetime. And if you kids out there have questions about Social Security that you want answered, you just pick up a telephone and call any Social Security office. You'll find a helpful person who can answer any question you have. Now then, back to Mercer Ellington and his closing number.

[Mercer Ellington]

When Duke Ellington, that's my dad, was engaged to write the score of Baker's holiday in 1947, he wrote 78 songs, just half of which were actually used in the show. Maybe I Should Change My Ways was one of the big numbers. And this instrumental version is virtually a showcase for Ray Nance's violin.

[Hal Jackson]

That was Duke Ellington playing maybe I Should Change My Ways. Afraid that's all the time we have for today, but we'll be back this way again very soon. Right, Mercer?

[Mercer Ellington]

Right, Hal. This is Mercer Ellington saying ciao, and we'll see you real soon. And remember, until next time, stay well and stay happy.

[Hal Jackson]

The genius of Duke has been brought to you by the Social Security Administration and this station as a public service so that you may find out about your rights and benefits under Social Security. If you've enjoyed the show, please join us again next week on this station. Until then, this is. This is Hal Jackson saying, when you think of the future, think of Social Security.